It’s definitely spring in Chicago – though many of us are wandering the streets in a daze, wondering vaguely why winter never arrived. The trees are covered in spring-green buds, and the daffodils and tulips are painting the scenery in joyous colors. And, of course, our fair city has lots of food and drink news, about which here are a few bits for your consideration.

• Live music and chocolate in The Lobby at The Peninsula camp hotel in downtown Chicago. Every Friday and Saturday night from 730 to 11 come enjoy an evening of music, dancing, and chocolate. Guests to dine at The Lobby or Shanghai Terrace for dinner will receive a special 50% off on their chocolate experience.
• Drumbar, since 2012 Chicago’s speakeasy-style cocktail lounge, is introducing a new passport-themed drink menu inspired by the bar staff’s experience with and love for a specific destination. Perfect to imbibe atop Drumbar’s rooftop terrace. Two examples: 1) THAILAND: Compass Box Glasgow Blend scotch, coconut milk, fresh mango puree, lime juice and house made sticky rice cordial; 2) MAINE: Templeton Rye, lemon, rosemary vermouth, Cruz Blackstrap and Lapsang dem tea topped with Allagash beer foam and a spray of Laphroiag Scotch Malt Whisky.
• Irish Wheat Ale. Guinness, the company known for that distinctive wonderful dark drink called Guinness Stout, is right on trend now with a new ale made with wheat grown in Ireland. Wheat beer is huge across the world these days – in fact it’s the third largest beer segment today. And just in time for spring, Guinness Irish will be available in your favorite pub. It’s got a clean, crisp refreshing taste with notes of zesty citrus, subtle clove and – get this –  banana! It’s a lovely pale gold with the typical wheat haze. Alcohol is 5.3%, and it’s made with hops are from Mount Hood and Amarillo and  with Irish Wheat and Stout malts. Frothy head and mellow flavor. We love it. Guinness knows what it’s doing. Where to find Irish Wheat Ale in Chicago.  

• 

  Drake Hotel. If you need an excuse to go and enjoy the lush surroundings and the excellent food at this Historic Hotel in downtown Chicago, consider the Palm Court’s High Tea as a great way to treat your administrative assistant, if you’re working and have one of those – or yourself and your pal if you’re retired and doing your own administering – for Administrative Professionals Day on April 26. Seatings are every hour and a half from 11am to 5pm. Or if you prefer an executive-type meal, reserve a table at Coq d’Or for a prix fixe menu that day from 11am to 2pm. Either way, prepare to feel pampered.